The Maker Files Blog

Our blog for brands looking to create authentic connections with makers & DIYers

What's On A Woodworker's Tool Bench?

Posted by Alicia Lewis on Dec 13, 2017

Woodworker Toolbench

Being a woodworker involves a lot of tools, and being aware of and having a firm grasp on the actual equipment that lines a woodworker's workbench can be invaluable information for a marketer. It better allows you to understand woodworkers and how they work on their craft and the overall stock they put into a quality product. 

"You can't make something good, useful or beautiful out of junk. You just can't, I've tried," said Sam Krantz of Ohio Wood & Iron Works. "It doesn't work, so if you're going to put the time and effort into it, then you have to start with the best materials you can get."

Most Common Woodworking Tools

Saws

The circular saw is one of the more versatile basic handheld power tools on the market and when used with a clamp-on straight-edge, it can be nearly as accurate as a table saw. If working on a budget, a high-quality circular saw should be one of the first handheld power tools on your list. Other saws that are part of the woodworking toolbox: hand saws and compound miter saws.

Combination Square and Table Measure

Measuring is really important in woodworking, so makers have to be sure they have all the tools they need to measure precisely and accurately, every time. Make sure a combination square and a table measure are part of your repertoire.

Power Drill

A corded power drill has some clear advantages over a cordless drill. A corded power drill is not only is it less expensive, but it's also more powerful and versatile when compared to a cordless. But if you're looking for a drill that's more portable, cordless is definitely the way to go.

Random Orbital Sanders

Random orbital sanders allow the user to smooth all surfaces of the final work efficiently and professionally. "You can't sand with a file, you have to get a sander. You have to have the appropriate tool for the job... The right tools for the right job are always the right way to do everything. Don't try to gerrymander it." - Dennis Ward, woodcrafter

"I use glue, screws and nails. Tool wise, I use a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, impact driver, nail guns, biscuit joiners, pretty much anything for woodworking. Going through my shop, there's a different tool everywhere you look." - Guy Capito, Sawdust Puppy

Jigsaw

A jigsaw allows its user to cut circular and curved patterns into the wood. While a band saw may be more accurate, a jigsaw is better for most beginners and can be just as effective as more expensive options.

Bench and Clamps

clamp

"I use clamps too much – to many clamps – but I like things to be held tight so I can drill them and position them without worrying about them falling apart. I don't like to worry about how things are doing when I'm not around. I probably have fifty or sixty different sized clamps." - Dennis Ward, woodcrafter

Clamps allow you to hold what you're working on in place, whether you need to drill or position something or glue something together over night.

 

Router

A quality router is key for every beginning woodworker. A quality, stationary base model should take care of most tasks, just make sure you choose a router model that is at least 2-HP and has electronic variable speed controls.

Lathes

A lathe can bring out the creativity in any woodworker and allows for makers to stretch their artistic muscles and create some pretty amazing things.

"A lathe is a lot of fun. Turning things is a lot of fun. I don't have an artistic bone in my body, so it gives me some chance to be a little bit artistic. The lathe gives you a little chance to be creative." - Dennis Ward, woodcrafter

Hammer and screwdriver

These are some toolbox staples that really should be in everyone's garage, but they're super vital for woodworkers. Your trusty hammer and screwdriver will be the thing you grab for the most often and is irreplaceable when working in your woodshop.


Knowing and understanding all that goes into woodworking and what woodworkers tend to reach for when they're working in their shop can only help you, as a marketer, better grasp the woodworker demographic. By learning about these tools, you will better be able to connect with woodcrafters and understand their wants and needs on a whole new level.

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Topics: Marketing to Makers, Woodworkers

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